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Why Are 3d Printers a Big Deal and Are They Dangerous?

3D Printing. Sounds intriguing and everyone seems to be talking about it.

It may seem like a simple idea – but, there is some work required to make the machine print in 3D.

For one, you need to know how to work CAD (computer-aided design) software. This allows the user to design a 3D object on their computer that is then sent to the 3D printer. Once the machine is sent the information, it begins printing the object in layers and in some cases a laser can be used to harden the material.

Once you get that down, just about anything can be printed and it is an amazing concept. 3D printers have so many uses for personal use and businesses alike!

There is even a website full of products made from 3D printers that you can buy! I’m surely going to use this website in the future!

The medical field could definitely benefit from 3D printing. In fact, it has paved the way for the idea of bio-printing. This idea can prevent future deaths due to the infinite waiting list for organ transplants.

Blame the ultrafine particles (UFPs) that apparently spew out of the printer into the air as it is constructing layers of said objects. These UFPs can be inhaled and deposited in the lungs, which at the very least can cause asthma symptoms.

Researchers measured the amount of UFPs let out into the air when a commercial printer (the study doesn’t specify which brands) creates a small plastic item. And the emission rates were high — about 20 billion particles per minute for a 3D printer working with PLA material at a relatively low temp and upwards of 200 billion/minute for those working at higher temps and with other materials.

Despite the fact that these printers may be dangerous, they can still make an awesome Yoda: